Guide to Recycled Water Regulations

June 2010
Issued by:
The Regulation and Supervision Bureau
for the water, wastewater and electricity sector
in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
2010
Guide to Recycled
Water and Biosolids
Regulations
Guide to
Recycled Water and
Biosolids Regulations 2010
Issued by:
The Regulation and Supervision Bureau
for the water, wastewater and electricity sector
www.rsb.gov.ae
June 2010
Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010
Foreword
Recycled Water and Biosolids

The products of Wastewater treatment are a valuable source of water,
nutrients and energy. The Bureau believes that the Wastewater sector
must promote the Reuse of Recycled Water and Biosolids to support the
Emirates sustainable development goals.
The Bureau issued the Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010
to establish a legal framework for the safe and economic Disposal of
Recycled Water and Biosolids by Sewerage Service Licensees.
The Regulations aim to control the treatment and Disposal of Recycled
Water and Biosolids in a way that will protect public health, safeguard
the environment, minimise public nuisance and encourage the full
recovery of these valuable resources.
Guidance
The Bureau believes that regulation only achieves its objectives if
Licensees have a clear understanding of what they must do to comply
with the law.
This guidance document is aimed at helping Licensees and Endusers understand their duties under the Recycled Water and Biosolids
Regulations 2010.
Nicholas Carter
Director General
List of revisions
Revision
Date
Prepared
by:
Checked
by:
Issued to:
1.0
June 10
RMS
MG & CH
Publication
Table of contents
1.
Overview
Background
Purpose
Implementation
Interpretation
Help and advice
7
7
7
8
9
9
2.
Introduction
Background
Defining Recycled Water and Biosolids
Scope of the Regulations
Related activities
Regulatory framework
11
11
11
13
14
15
3.

Part 3: Disposal of Recycled Water

and Biosolids
Regulation 3.1 Prohibitions
Regulation 3.2 Discharges to the environment
Regulation 3.3 Self supply schemes
19
19
21
22
4.
Part 4: Supply of Recycled Water and Biosolids

Regulation 4.1 Supply Agreements
Regulation 4.2 Applying for a Supply Agreement
Regulation 4.3 Issue of a Supply Agreement
Regulation 4.7 Supply Agreement details
23
23
23
24
26
5.
Part 5: Safety Plans

Regulation 5.1 Development of Safety Plans
Regulation 5.2 Review of Safety Plans
Regulation 5.3 Scope of Safety Plans
27
27
28
28
6.
Part 6: Safety Plan monitoring programme

Regulation 6.1 Development of a Safety Plan
monitoring programme
Regulation 6.2 Data collection and reporting
Regulation 6.3 Auditing
Regulation 6.5 Monitoring equipment
Regulation 6.6 and 6.7 Sampling and
analytical systems
33
33
Part 7: Compliance
Regulation 7.1 Assessing compliance
Regulation 7.2 Improvement notices
Regulation 7.5 Enforcement
41
41
43
43
7.
34
35
37
37
Table of contents (cont.)

8.
Part 8: Appeals and arbitration

Regulation 8.1 Appeals
Regulation 8.2 Appeal form
Regulation 8.6 Bureau consideration
Regulation 8.8 Arbitration
45
45
46
46
47
9.
Part 9: Demand management

Regulation 9.1 Measuring production and
Regulation 9.2 Measuring supply
Regulation 9.3 Meeting demand
Regulation 9.4 Efficient use
49
49
10.
Part 10: Education and guidance

Regulation 10.1 Education and guidance
Regulation 10.2 Awareness of Recycled Water
and Biosolids quality
51
51
51
11.

Part 11: Recycled Water and

Biosolids Review Panel
Regulation 11.1 Establishment of the Panel
Regulation 11.6 Panel Members
Regulation 11.9 Panel Rules
53
Annexes
49
50
53
53
54
55
Overview
Background
1.1
The Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

establish a legal framework for the safe and economic
management of Recycled Water and Biosolids by Sewerage
Services Licensees in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
1.2
The Regulations are issued by the Bureau under its powers

defined in Article (62) of Law No (2) which states:
The Regulation and Supervision Bureau may, in

consultation with whom it sees fit, make such Regulations
as it sees fit for the purposes set out in Articles (63) and (68)
of this Law.
1.3
Figure 1.1 illustrates the laws, documents and terms used by

the Bureau when regulating the sector.
Figure 1.1 Sector overview
Purpose
1.4
This guidance document is aimed at helping Sewerage

Services Licensees and End-users understand the
requirements of the Recycled Water and Biosolids
Regulations 2010.
1.5
The guide aims to provide information on:

(a) the approach Licensees should use to develop:
(i)
Supply Agreements for the Disposal of

Recycled Water and Biosolids; and
(ii)
Safety Plans and monitoring programmes; and
(b) the roles and responsibilities of End-users, Licensees,

the Bureau and the Panel.
1.6
The guide has been developed in consultation with

Sewerage Service Licensees, the Environment Agency Abu
Dhabi, The Health Authority Abu Dhabi and the Center of
Waste Management.
1.7
The Bureau will ensure that this document is regularly

reviewed and updated in consultation with the Panel.
Implementation
1.8
Any Disposal activity which begins after the 1 June 2010

must comply with the Regulations immediately.
1.9
Any Disposal activity which is ongoing on 1 June 2010 must

comply with the Regulations by 1 June 2011.
1.10
A Disposal Licensee may agree an alternative programme

for compliance for ongoing Disposal activities with the
Bureau by 1 December 2010.
Overview
Interpretation
1.11
Words which are defined in the Regulations begin with

capital letters when used in this guidance document.
1.12
A word or expression which is defined in the Law and used,

but not defined in this guidance document, has the same
meaning as in the Law.
1.13
All time periods in the Regulations are stated in calendar

days.
Help and advice

1.14
The Bureau welcomes views and comments about the

content and presentation of the Recycled Water and
Biosolids Regulations 2010 and this guidance document.
1.15
Please contact the Bureau if you:
1.16
1.17
(a)
have any questions about the Regulations;
(b)
have suggestions on how we could improve the

Regulations and this guidance document; or
(c)
require copies of the Laws and Regulations which

govern the Wastewater sector.
To contact the Bureau please:

(a)
email: water@rsb.gov.ae
(b)
telephone: +971 (0)2 4439333; or
(c)
write to: Director of Water Services, Regulation and

Supervision Bureau, P.O. Box 32800, Abu Dhabi,
UAE.
Copies of the Laws and Regulations which govern the

Wastewater sector are available electronically on the
Bureaus website http://www.rsb.gov.ae.
10
Introduction
Background
2.1
The Wastewater Sewerage, Treatment and Disposal

Systems in Abu Dhabi have been developed in response
to Government requirements to protect public health
and minimise the environmental impact of Wastewater
discharges. However, the collection and treatment of
Wastewater generates a range of valuable products which
can be used as a source of water, nutrients and energy.
2.2
In order to support the Emirates sustainable development

goals the Bureau has developed a legal framework to:
(a)
maximise the social and economic benefits associated

with Recycled Water and Biosolids Disposal;
(b)
minimise the risk to public health and the environment;

and
(c)
develop public confidence in Recycled Water and

Biosolids Disposal.
Defining Recycled Water and Biosolids

2.3
The Regulations include the following important definitions

(a)
Wastewater the water-borne wastes generated

by any domestic, commercial or industrial activity
including Grey Water and Trade Effluent.
(b)
Grey Water Wastewater sourced solely from baths,

showers, hand basins and domestic laundries.
(c)
Recycled Water treated liquid effluent produced

by a Wastewater Treatment System that is suitable for
Reuse.
(d)
Biosolids sewage sludge produced by a Wastewater

Treatment System that has been treated and stabilised
to the extent that it can be safely supplied for Reuse
activities.
(e)
Disposal the safe and sustainable disposal,

recycling or sale of various products produced from
the Wastewater Treatment System.
11
2.4
The definitions are intended to clarify three key issues:

(a)
Grey Water is an integral component of Wastewater

and its collection, treatment and Disposal are
regulated in the same way as Wastewater. Figure 2.1
illustrates how the Bureau views the components
which make up Wastewater.
Figure 2.1 Wastewater components
12
(b)
Recycled Water and Biosolids are the products of

Wastewater Treatment that have been treated to a
standard which makes them safe to use in applications
which are socially and environmentally beneficial.
They have low levels of microbiological and chemical
contamination and are assessed by their quality not
their source. Figure 2.2 illustrates the points at which
the Bureau believes the products of Wastewater or
Grey Water treatment become Recycled Water and
Biosolids.
(c)
The definition of Disposal is aimed at encouraging

Disposal Licensees to develop outlets for Recycled
Water and Biosolids which are safe, economic and
socially acceptable. The Bureau believes that the
Disposal of Recycled Water and Biosolids includes
the following activities:
1ntroduction

(i)
the management and transfer of Recycled

Water and Biosolids to the Point-of-transfer to
an End-user;
(ii)
the economic, safe and socially acceptable

supply of Recycled Water and Biosolids for
beneficial use; and
(iii)
the discharge of Recycled Water and Biosolids

to the environment.
Figure 2.2 Recycled Water and Biosolids
Scope of the Regulations

2.5
The Regulations define the actions Sewerage Services

Licensees must take to assure the delivery of Recycled
Water and Biosolids to the Point-of-transfer. The main
requirements of the Regulations will be implemented by
Disposal Licensees and enforced by the Bureau. Figure 2.3
illustrates the scope of the Regulations.
13
Figure 2.3 Scope of the Regulations
Related activities
2.6
The Reuse or further treatment of Recycled Water or

Biosolids is controlled by other regulators. Any Entity
who receives Recycled Water or Biosolids from a Disposal
Licensee must seek advice regarding the regulatory
requirements for their activity from either:
(a)
Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD);
(b)
Center of Waste Management Abu Dhabi (CWM); or
(c)
the appropriate Sector Regulatory Authority (SRA)

appointed under the Emirates Environmental Health
and Safety Management System1.
1 http://www.ead.ae/en/portal/ad.ehsms.aspx
14
1ntroduction
2.7
The release of Trade Effluent into a Sewerage System has

the potential to affect the safe and economic Disposal of
Recycled Water and Biosolids and is regulated by the Trade
Effluent Control Regulations 20102.
Regulatory Framework
2.8
2.9
2.10
The Regulations require Licensees to manage Recycled

Water and Biosolids Disposal by:
(a)
implementing Supply Agreements;
(b)
developing Safety Plans;
(c)
completing Safety Plan monitoring programmes; and
(d)
employing education programmes.
The Regulations require the Bureau to:

(a)
set standards for the quality of Recycled Water and

Biosolids at the Point-of-transfer;
(b)
enforce compliance with the Regulations;
(c)
collate Recycled Water and Biosolids production and

supply data; and
(d)
arbitrate in any disputes between Licensees and Endusers.
Figure 2.4 illustrates the key controls and balances defined

by the Regulations.
Regulation & Supervision Bureau (2010) Trade Effluent Control Regulations 2010, RSB Abu Dhabi
15
Figure 2.4 Controls and balances for Recycled Water

& Biosolids Regulations 2010
2.11
Part 3 of the Regulations prohibit the Disposal of Recycled

Water and Biosolids which do not meet the quality standards
defined in Schedules A and B of the Regulations. The
Bureau will determine and review the quality standards in
consultation with the Panel.
16
1ntroduction
2.12
The Regulations require a Disposal Licensee to develop

two important documents for each Disposal activity:
(a)
Supply Agreement defines the terms and

conditions for the supply of Recycled Water or
Biosolids to the End-user.
(b)
Safety Plan defines the operational and

management controls that the Collection, Treatment
and Disposal Licensees will use to safeguard the
quality and quantity of Recycled Water and Biosolids
to the Point-of-transfer.
2.13
The extent of a Disposal Licensees activity is defined by

the Point-of-transfer to an End-user or the point at which
Recycled Water and Biosolids are released by the Disposal
Licensee to the environment.
2.14
Where Recycled Water or Biosolids are transferred to an

End-user the Disposal Licensee must develop a Supply
Agreement and a Safety Plan for the Disposal activity.
2.15
Where a Disposal Licensee is releasing Recycled Water and

Biosolids:
(a) direct to the environment; or

(b) reusing them on their own premises;

they must develop a Safety Plan which covers all Licensee
activities to the point-of-release.
2.16
When a Disposal Licensee supplies Recycled Water or

Biosolids to an End-user at a number of locations or for
a number of uses, they must develop a Supply Agreement
and Safety Plan for each Point-of-transfer.
2.17
Part 4 of the Regulations detail the process for obtaining

a Supply Agreement and the circumstances in which an
Agreement can be varied.
17
18
2.18
The Safety Plan is the process which will ensure Licensees

deliver Recycled Water and Biosolids to the Point-oftransfer in a condition which is safe, socially acceptable and
economic. The requirements for a Safety Plan and Safety
Plan monitoring programme are detailed in Part 5 and Part
6 of the Regulations.
2.19
The Regulations recognise the need for checks and balances

on the powers of Licensees and the Bureau. They include
detailed guidance on:
(a)
the process the Bureau will follow to assess compliance

and manage enforcement (Part 7); and
(b)
the Bureaus process for considering appeals (Part 8).
2.20
Part 9 of the Regulations gives guidance to Licensees on

the allocation of Recycled Water and Biosolids. It also sets
out the Bureaus duty to collate data on the production and
supply of Recycled Water and Biosolids. These measures
are aimed at helping the Emirate allocate these valuable
resources safely, economically and fairly.
2.21
The Bureau believes that education and guidance will

play an important role in achieving the safe and economic
Disposal of Recycled Water and Biosolids. Part 10 of the
Regulations mandates the development of education and
guidance strategies aimed at promoting best practice and
raising awareness.
2.22
The Bureau believes that the regulation of Recycled Water

and Biosolids Disposal must be a dynamic process that
stimulates innovation and is flexible enough to manage new
challenges. Part 11 of the Regulations acknowledges regular
review must be an important element of the regulation
process and establishes the Recycled Water and Biosolids
Review Panel. The Panel will provide advice and guidance
to the Bureau on developments in the management and
regulation of Recycled Water and Biosolids.
2.23
The following chapters provide detailed guidance on each

Part of the Regulations.
Part 3: Disposal of Recycled

Water and Biosolids
Regulation 3.1 Prohibitions

Quality criteria for Recycled Water (Schedule A) and
Biosolids (Schedule B)
3.1
The Regulations prohibit the Disposal of Recycled Water

and Biosolids which do not meet the quality standards set
out in schedules A and B of the Regulations.
3.2
The Bureau has worked with the EAD, CWM and HAAD
to develop standards which are realistic, affordable, and
enforceable. In order to make the assessment process
simple, they only include parameters which can be readily
measured and are relevant to assessing the suitability of the
Recycled Water and Biosolids at the Point-of-transfer.
3.3
The standards define the minimum microbiological,

physical and chemical requirements for Recycled Water
and Biosolids at the Point-of-transfer and were developed
by:
3.4
(a)
following guidance from

Organization (WHO);
the
World
Health
(b)
reviewing a range of international frameworks; and
(c)
following precedents in UAE Federal and Abu Dhabi

Emirate Law.
The WHO guidelines for the safe use of Wastewater, excreta

and grey water3 recommends that Wastewater Reuse
should result in risks to public health which are the same as
those associated with other water uses such as drinking or
swimming. The Bureau has embedded this principle into the
Regulations and believes that aligning the risks associated
with different water uses incorporates Wastewater Disposal
into a set of consistent water management policies for the
Emirate.
http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/Wastewater/gsuww/en/index.html
19
3.5
The standards for Recycled Water and Biosolids include

two Reuse standards and additional requirements for
specific applications.
(a)
P1 and B1 are the strictest standards and should

be employed when the end-use is likely to involve
frequent and uncontrolled exposure of the general
public, such as the use of Recycled Water for irrigation
in urban areas or toilet flushing.
(b)
P2 and B2 have been developed for activities which

involve infrequent and controlled public exposure,
such as agricultural irrigation or reprocessing of
Biosolids.
3.6
All the standards will require good source control of

industrial and commercial inputs to the Sewerage System.
This will be achieved through the implementation of the
Trade Effluent Control Regulations 2010 by Collection
Licensees.
3.7
It is anticipated that the:
3.8
20
(a)
P1 standard will require Treatment and Disposal

Systems capable of delivering high quality tertiary
treatment and disinfection;
(b)
P2 standard will require Treatment and Disposal

Systems capable of achieving good quality secondary
treatment and disinfection;
(c)
B1 standard may require a sludge disinfection process

to support the sludge stabilisation requirements of
Schedule B2; and
(d)
B2 will be achieved through a good stabilisation

process that achieves the requirements of Schedule
B2.
The Bureau understands that Disposal of Recycled

Water and Biosolids and its regulation should be regularly
reviewed. The Panel is required to recommend revisions
The Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations
to the standards after considering local epidemiological

data and developments in international practice for the
management of Disposal activities. The Bureau has a duty
to review any recommendations from the Panel and amend
the Regulations where required.
3.9
An End-user may wish to reduce their operational risks

by using Recycled Water or Biosolids of a higher quality
than that defined in the Regulations. The Bureau believes
that the standards in the Regulations will ensure the sector
produces Recycled Water and Biosolids that are safe and
socially acceptable. Further polishing or processing of the
Recycled Water or Biosolids to reduce operational risks
should be the commercial choice and responsibility of the
End-user.
Disposal of Recycled
Water and Biosolids
Supply Agreements
3.10
The Regulations also prohibit the Disposal of Recycled

Water and Biosolids without a Supply Agreement.
3.11
The principle objective of a Supply Agreement is to define:
3.12
(a)
the terms and conditions for the supply of Recycled

Water and Biosolids; and
(b)
the composition and quantity that will be supplied.
Part 4 of the Regulations define the process for obtaining

a Supply Agreement and the minimum requirements for a
Supply Agreement.
Regulation 3.2 Discharges to the environment

3.13
The Regulations recognise that there will be certain

operational circumstances which will make it necessary for
a Licensee to discharge Recycled Water to the environment
or Biosolids to landfill.
3.14
These discharges will be regulated by the EAD, CWM or

EHSMS sector regulatory authority. Licensees must seek
21
advice from these organisations regarding the requirements

for approval and regulation of these discharges.
3.15
Licensees must also report any discharge of Recycled Water

or Biosolids to the environment to the Bureau. The Incident
Reporting Regulations 2008 define the requirements for
reporting incidents4.
3.16
The Bureau acknowledges that the discharge of Recycled

Water to the environment and Biosolids to landfill is current
operational practice for a number of Licensees and that
these Disposal activities have been permitted by other
regulatory agencies. The Bureau also acknowledges that the
current operational practice reflects capacity or capability
limitations in existing Treatment and Disposal Systems.
3.17
However, the Bureau expects Licensees to support the

Emirates sustainable development goals and to develop a
strategic plan to ensure all Recycled Water and Biosolids are
used in economically efficient, safe and socially acceptable
Disposal activities as soon as practicable.
3.18
Licensees who are discharging Recycled Water to the

environment and Biosolids to landfill on 1 June 2010 should
agree an alternative programme for compliance with the
Bureau by 1 December 2010. The alternative programme
must include details of their proposals to minimise the
discharge of Recycled Water to the environment and
Biosolids to landfill.
Regulation 3.3 Self Supply

3.19
A Treatment or Disposal Licensee may Reuse Recycled

Water or Biosolids on its own premises without a Supply
Agreement if it follows the guidance on allocation in Clause
9.3 and develops a Safety Plan which extends to the pointof-use.
3.20
The Licensee must notify the Bureau of any proposed self

supply scheme and include details of the scheme in the
register of Points-of-transfer required by Clause 9.2.
22
http://www.rsb.gov.ae/PDFs/ind001.pdf
Part 4: Supply of Recycled

Water and Biosolids
Regulation 4.1 Supply Agreements

4.1
Anyone who wants to receive Recycled Water and Biosolids

must apply for a Supply Agreement from a Disposal
Licensee.
4.2
A Disposal Licensee must have a Supply Agreement which

defines the terms of supply for every Point-of-transfer on its
Disposal System. This may mean that certain End-users will
have several Supply Agreements because their operations
occur at many locations and they use the Recycled Water
or Biosolids in a number of ways. Figure 4.1 illustrates this
concept.
Figure 4.1 Requirement for Supply Agreements
Regulation 4.2 Applying for a Supply Agreement

4.3
As part of the application process the applicant will be

asked to provide information about the proposed use and
for details of the business making the application.
23
4.4
The provision of false or misleading information in the

application is contrary to the Law and will be enforced in
accordance with the Law.
4.5
The Disposal Licensee will supply applicants with an

application form that will ensure the information required
to assess the application and produce a Supply Agreement
has been provided.
4.6
The application form will seek information concerning:
4.7
(a)
the full name, address, registered office, company

number and legal status of the applicant seeking a
Supply Agreement;
(b)
the proposed Point-of-transfer and discharge location;
(c)
the nature and purpose of the proposed end-use; and
(d)
the maximum quantity of Recycled Water or Biosolids

that will be required on any one day.
Disposal Licensees will assist applicants with the application

process as required.
Regulation 4.3 Issue of a Supply Agreement
24
4.8
Once a complete application for a Supply Agreement has

been submitted, the Disposal Licensee is required to assess
the application and notify the applicant of the outcome
within 60 days.
4.9
When considering an application for a Supply Agreement

the Disposal Licensee must:
(a)
be satisfied that the End-user has demonstrated the

Disposal activity will meet the requirements of Clause
4.3.1 a; and
(b)
have sufficient Recycled Water or Biosolids to meet

the new demand.
When assessing an application for a Supply Agreement the

Disposal Licensee should:
(a)
determine whether the End-user has obtained

approval for the proposed Reuse activity from the
appropriate regulatory authority, for example, the
EAD, CWM or SRA;
(b)
be aware of its own responsibilities under Emirate

and UAE Federal Law with regard to the protection
of:
(c)
4.11
Supply of Recycled
Water and Biosolids
4.10
(i)
the health and safety of staff and others; and
(ii)
the environment; and
determine which standards in Schedule A and B are

applicable for the proposed Disposal activity.
If the application is successful the Disposal Licensee will

send written notification to:
(a) the applicant, including a copy of the draft Supply
Agreement; and
(b) the Bureau including a copy of the draft Supply
Agreement and Safety Plan.
.
4.12
The applicant has the right to appeal to the Bureau if:

(a)
the Supply Agreement has conditions which it

believes are unreasonable; or
(b)
if an application has been refused.
4.13
The process for appealing Disposal Licensee decisions is

outlined in Part 8 of the Regulations.
4.14
Figure 4.2 illustrates a typical application process.
25
Figure 4.2 Supply Agreement application process
Regulation 4.7 Supply Agreement details
26
4.15
The information which must be included in a Supply

Agreement is set out in Clause 4.7.2.
4.16
The Supply Agreement will include both commercial and

technical clauses and form the basis of the relationship
between the End-user and Disposal Licensee.
4.17
In developing the terms and conditions for a Supply

Agreement the Disposal Licensee should consider any
requirements an End-user may require to fulfil its legal
obligations. For example, the Center of Waste Management
will require End-users handling Biosolids to obtain an
analysis of each batch of Biosolids delivered and this
requirement should be detailed in the Supply Agreement.
Part 5: Safety Plans
Regulation 5.1 Development of Safety Plans

5.1
The Regulations require a Disposal Licensee to develop

a Safety Plan which describes the operational and
management controls that will be used to safeguard the
quality and quantity of the Recycled Water or Biosolids
delivered to each Point-of-transfer on its system.
5.2
The objective of a Safety Plan is to protect public health,

safeguard the environment and minimise any Public
Nuisance associated with the Disposal of Recycled Water
or Biosolids.
5.3
The Safety Plan process is designed to:

(a)
identify and minimise risks associated with the supply

of Recycled Water and Biosolids;
(b)
assess the adequacy of the control measures used to

mitigate the risks; and
(c)
promote discussion and collaboration between

Collection, Treatment and Disposal Licensees.
5.4
The Safety Plan concept recognises that there are many

options for addressing the risks associated with the
Disposal of Recycled Water and Biosolids. By examining
the Sewerage, Treatment and Disposal Systems in detail,
Licensees can identify the most economic and secure way
to protect public health, safeguard the environment and
minimise Public Nuisance.
5.5
In practice, effective risk management will be achieved

by using multiple barriers to exposure in the Wastewater
management chain. These barriers may be treatment
processes, source control programmes, codes of practice
for end-use or training schemes for operators. Figure 5.1
illustrates typical exposure barriers.
27
Figure 5.1 Wastewater management chain

exposure barriers
5.6
Safety Plans are applicable to all Wastewater management

systems regardless of their size and complexity.
Regulation 5.2 Review of Safety Plans

5.7
28
The Bureau will review all Safety Plans to ensure Disposal

Licensees are adopting consistent risk management
practices and addressing scheme specific risks which may
threaten public health or the environment.
Regulation 5.3 Scope of Safety Plans

The Safety Plan should cover the entire Wastewater
management chain that delivers Recycled Water or
Biosolids to the Point-of-transfer. The Safety Plan should
be a living document that evolves over time to address new
risks or changes in the Wastewater management chain.
Safety Plans
5.8
Developing a Safety Plan

5.9
The process for developing a Safety Plan must be

well defined and incorporate the plan-do-check-act
methodology set out in ISO 19011:2003 Guidelines
for quality and environmental management systems for
auditing. This concept should be familiar to Licensees
with formal management systems but, in practice, means a
Safety Plan process must include:
(a)
a System assessment: which identifies the

components and capabilities of the Sewerage,
Treatment and Disposal System and the hazards
associated with delivering Recycled Water and
Biosolids to the Point-of-transfer;
(b)
a risk mitigation process: risk assessment and

implementation of operational and management
controls to address the risks;
(c)
an operational monitoring programme:

operation of a monitoring programme which will
assess the effectiveness of any controls, (see Part 6 of
the Regulations) ; and
(d)
a management and communication system:

the review of monitoring information and the
implementation and communication of improvement
programmes, reporting and training.
29
5.10
Figure 5.2 illustrates an approach to developing Safety

Plans.
Figure 5.2 Safety Plan development process
5.11
5
6
30
There is not a standard method for developing and

implementing a Safety Plan. However, useful advice on
systems and approaches which may help Licensees establish
their Safety Plan process can be found in:
(a)
the World Health Organization guidance on

developing Drinking Water Safety Plans5; and
(b)
the EADs technical guidance for developing

operational environmental management plans6.
http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/dwq/wsp_manual.pdf
http://www.ead.ae/_data/global/tgds%20new/tgd_oemp_final.pdf
Through its program of developing Drinking Water Safety

Plans, the Bureau has found that:
(a)
the development and maintenance of Safety Plans

must be properly resourced and financed;
(b)
the resulting Safety Plan must be understood and

supported by senior management and staff;
(c)
the team leading the work should be representative of

all relevant disciplines;
(d)
consultants should not normally design or deliver the

Safety Plans as they are unlikely to have sufficient
knowledge of the Licensees operations and are
unlikely to gain staff acceptance of the outcomes;
(e)
the development of the Safety Plan is not a desk

top exercise; site visits form an essential part of the
process;
(f)
every member of staff has something to contribute,

particularly managers and operators of the Sewerage
and Treatment Systems, customer call handlers and
contractors; and
(g)
existing procedures should not be the starting point

for developing a Safety Plan.
Safety Plans
5.12
Risk assessment
5.13
The risk assessment step in the process requires a clear

and consistent definition of likelihood and consequence.
Annex A outlines a template for assessing risk taken from
the Abu Dhabi EHSMS CoP 05 Risk Management. This
document provides useful advice on risk assessment7.
http://www.ead.ae/_data/global/EHSMS%20Updated/AD%20EHSMS%20CoP%2005.pdf
31
5.14
Risk should be calculated before and after a control is put

in place to assess and validate the controls effectiveness. If
a hazard is not mitigated in the Sewerage System it should
be shown as a hazard entering the Treatment System and
so on through the Wastewater management chain up to the
Point-of-transfer and beyond.
5.15
Good examples of how to assess the risks associated with

Recycled Water Disposal can be found in the Environment
Protection and Heritage Council of Australias guidelines
for the safe use of Recycled Water8.
5.16
Licensees may find the food industrys HACCP (Hazard

Analysis of Critical Control Points) system a useful tool
for assessing risks and establishing appropriate operational
controls and monitoring for Recycled Water and Biosolids
Disposal activities. UK Water have described the HACCP
procedures carried out by UK Water companies in relation
to their Biosolids recycling activities in a useful guide9 which
describes how to apply the technique to a Wastewater
Disposal activity.
http://www.ephc.gov.au/taxonomy/term/39
UK Water (2004), The application of HACCP procedures in the water industry: Biosolids treatment
and use on agricultural land, UK Water, London, UK.
32
Part 6: Safety Plan

Regulation 6.1 Development of a Safety Plan

6.1
The Regulations require a Disposal Licensee to establish

a compliance monitoring programme for every Safety
Plan. The monitoring should confirm the effectiveness of
any controls and the quality of the Recycled Water and
Biosolids at the Point-of-transfer.
6.2
Any Treatment or Collection Licensee whose system

is connected to the Point-of-Transfer must support the
Disposal Licensee in the development of the monitoring
program. They are responsible for implementing the
requirements of the programme related to their system at
their own cost.
Risk assessment
6.3
Once the Safety Plan risk assessment has been made, the
Disposal Licensee can design an appropriate sampling and
inspection programme with the high risk activities subject
to the most intensive programmes.
6.4
Good examples of methods for developing risk-based

sampling and monitoring programmes include:
10
(a)
The Environment Protection and Heritage Council

of Australias guidelines for the safe use of Recycled
Water8; and
(b)
The UK Environment Agencys environmental

permitting Regulations operational risk appraisal
scheme10.
UK Environmental Agency (2010), Environmental permitting regulations operational

risk appraisal scheme (Opra for EPR), version 3.5, Environment Agency, Bristol, UK.
33
Monitoring programme
6.5
Details of the compliance monitoring programme must

be set out in the Safety Plan, to meet the requirements of
Clause 5.3.1 of the Regulations. The Bureau expects that
the Safety Plan will include details of:
(a)
the methods and frequency of sampling required;
(b)
the process for reviewing and validating online

monitoring; and
(c)
the schedule of proactive inspections to be completed

by the Licensees.
Regulation 6.2 Data collection and reporting

6.6
34
The Regulations require the Disposal Licensee to collate

monitoring and sampling data for each Safety Plan and to
submit a summary to the Bureau. The Bureau anticipates
that this submission will take place on a regular basis
throughout the year and the Bureau will determine data
management requirements with each Disposal Licensee
once the Regulations are established. Figure 6.1 illustrates
the proposed system.
Figure 6.1 Monitoring program data management
Safety Plan monitoring

programme
Regulation 6.3 Auditing

6.7
A Disposal Licensee is also required to establish whether

Licensees are complying with their monitoring obligations
for each Safety Plan in an annual audit. This may be
completed by an independent third party or by the Disposal
Licensees staff. The audit must consider:
(a)
(b)
6.8
11
the accuracy and reliability of the data collected by

Licensees; and
Licensees performance in fulfilling their obligations
with regard to monitoring activities.
The EHSMS CoP 08 Audit and Inspection11 gives

good general advice on the implementation of an audit
programme. The Bureau anticipates that Disposal Licensees
will ensure that anyone carrying out an audit will have the
necessary knowledge and experience and a clearly defined
role. Figure 6.2 outlines a typical audit plan.
http://www.ead.ae/_data/global/EHSMS%20Updated/AD%20EHSMS%20CoP%2008.pdf
35
Figure 6.2 Audit plan
Source: EAD EHSMS CoP 08 Audit and Inspection
36
6.9
The Bureau believes that online monitoring will allow

Licensees to monitor Disposal activities efficiently, effectively
and lower the overall costs of the monitoring programme.
6.10
The measurement and recording of instanteous and

cumulative daily flows will be an important element of
any monitoring programme. All flow meters must be fit
for purpose and installed and maintained to achieve a
minimum accuracy of 10%.
6.11
The advice given by the UK Environment Agency guide to

flow monitoring12 describes good practice and an assessment
process for establishing whether flow metering installations
meet the desired accuracy targets.
6.12

programme
Regulation 6.5 Monitoring equipment
Online monitoring is considered to be any type of

continuous measurement of a substance in Wastewater
and includes the facilities for secure data logging and
downloading. Advice on procedures for establishing
accurate and reliable online monitoring can be found in
the UK Environment Agencys Monitoring Certification
Scheme13.
Regulation 6.6 and 6.7 Sampling and

analytical systems
6.13
The Regulations define the requirement for the collection

and analysis of any samples used to assess compliance and
applies to Licensees.
6.14
The Bureau believes that the reliability of the information

obtained from sampling is critical to a successful compliance
assessment process. It is essential that any sample should
be representative of the discharge, handled in a way which
preserves its composition and analysed in a way which is
accurate and repeatable.
12
13
UK Environment Agency (2008) Minimum Requirements for the Self-Monitoring of Effluent FlowVersion 3.2, London.
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/regulation/31829.aspx
37
Obtaining a representative sample

6.15
The two most common approaches to sampling Wastewater

are grab sampling and composite sampling. When
considering which to adopt the Licensee should considered
the variability of the source, the nature of the Wastewater
and the parameters under investigation.
6.16
The guidance provided in the following documents

represents good practice in the collection of representative
samples:
(a)
ISO 5667-1, Water qualitySampling, Part 1:

Guidance on the design of sampling programs;
(b)
ISO 5667-2, Water qualitySampling, Part 2:

Guidance on sampling techniques;
(c)
ISO 5667-3 Water qualitySampling, Part 3:

Guidance on the preservation and handling of
samples; and
(d)
the UK Standing Committee of Analysts publication,

The Microbiology of Sewage Sludge (2003) Part 2
- Practices and procedures for sampling and sample
preparation14.
Sample analysis
6.17
The Panel will establish a guidance note outlining the

most appropriate methods of analysis to be adopted for
Wastewater, Recycled Water and Biosolids. In establishing
this guidance the Panel will take account of good
international practice and national standards. The Panel
will review the following sources to establish its guidance:
(a)
14
15
38
the US Code of Regulations, Title 40 Protection of

Environment, Chapter 1 Environmental Protection
Agency, Sub chapter D, Water Programs Part 136
Guidelines for establishing Test procedures for the
analysis of pollutants15.
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/static/documents/Research/mss2003__part_2_604558.pdf
http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title40/40cfr136_main_02.tpl
6.19
16
the UK Standing Committee of Analysts series

entitled Methods for the Examination of Waters and
Associated materials16.
(c)
guidance from Emirates Authority for Standardization

& Metrology.

programme
6.18
(b)
Analysis should be carried out by a laboratory certified to

perform the tests by an independent accreditation body
acceptable to the Bureau such as
(a)
the Emirates Authority for Standardization &

Metrology; or
(b)
United Kingdom Accreditation Service.
In all cases any laboratory used for the analysis of Recycled

Water and Biosolids should conform with the requirements
of ISO 17025:2005 - General requirements for the
competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/research/commercial/32874.aspx
39
40
Part 7: Compliance
Regulation 7.1 Assessing compliance

7.1
Article (61) of Law No (2) states:
It shall be the duty of the Regulation and Supervision

Bureau to investigate any matter which appears to be
an enforcement matter and which is the subject of a
representation to it (other than where frivolous) by a person
having an interest in the matter. An enforcement matter is
any matter in respect of which any of the functions of the
Regulation and Supervision Bureau under Chapter 3 of
Part 6 of this Law are or may be exercisable.
7.2
In order to fulfil this duty, the Bureau will assess whether

Licensees are complying with the Regulations by reviewing
information submitted by Licensees and by completing site
inspections and audits.
7.3
In assessing compliance, the Bureau will act:
7.4
(a)
Proportionally take account of how far the

Licensee has fallen short of what is required;
(b)
Consistently take a similar approach in similar

circumstances to achieve similar ends; and
(c)
Transparently help Licensees understand what is

expected of them.
Where Licensees are found to be breaching the requirements

of the Regulations, the Bureau will take action to:
(a)
ensure Licensees take action to deal with any breach;
(b)
promote compliance with the Law and deter future

non-compliance;
(c)
change future behaviour of the offender; and
(d)
eliminate any financial gain or benefit associated with

non-compliance.
41
7.5
To achieve these objectives Law No (2) empowers the

Bureau to:
(a) appoint inspectors (Article (60)); and
(b) require compliance with notices issued to prevent or
end a breach of the Regulations or to reduce the risk
of personal injury, property damage and interference
with property (Article (65)).
Inspectors - Article (60) Law No (2)

7.6
Article (60) of Law No (2) states:

(1)
(2)
42
The Regulation and Supervision Bureau may appoint

qualified persons whose duties shall include:
(i)
inspect and test, periodically and in special

instances, plant and equipment belonging to
persons authorised by licence to conduct a
regulated activity;
(ii)
examine, periodically and in special instances,

the desalination of water, the transportation
and supply of water, the generation,
transmission, distribution and supply of
electricity by licensed operators;
(iii)
inspect and test, where required, such plant

and equipment at consumers' premises'; and
(iv)
perform such other functions as the Regulation

and Supervision Bureau may determine.
Those persons conducting a regulated activity shall

be required to afford those persons appointed under
paragraph (1) of this Article unrestricted access to all
plant, equipment and premises used for the purposes
of the regulated activity.
7.7
If the Bureau identifies that a Licensee has breached the

Regulations, it will establish the severity of the breach and
decide appropriate action.
7.8
Regulation 7.2 defines the procedure the Bureau should

follow if it issues an improvement notice.
7.9
An improvement notice may be served at any time and may

require immediate action to resolve a breach. The notice
must be served in writing and fulfil the requirements of
Regulation 7.2
7.10
If the breach poses a significant and immediate threat to

public health or the environment the Bureau may issue a
verbal improvement notice.
Compliance
Regulation 7.2 Improvement notices
Regulation 7.5 Enforcement

Breach of Regulations - Article (66) of Law No (2)
7.11
Any breach of Regulations is punishable under Article (66)

of Law No (2).
7.12
Article (66) states:
Failure of any person to comply with Regulations made

under Article (62) of this Law shall be punishable with a
fine of not less than AED 250,000. In case the same failure
is repeated by such person, the fine is doubled.
Power to make preliminary order - Article (107)

of Law No (2)
7.13
A breach of the Regulations may be considered a breach of

a licence condition which may be addressed by the Bureau
under Article (107) of Law No (2).
43
7.14
Article (107) states:
Subject to Article (110) of this Law, where it appears to the

Regulation and Supervision Bureau that:
(a)
a licensed operator is contravening, or is likely to

contravene any condition of its licence; and
(b)
it is requisite that a preliminary order only be made,
the Regulation and Supervision Bureau shall by a

preliminary order make such provision as appears to it to
be requisite so as to ensure compliance with that condition.
44
Part 8: Appeals and arbitration
Regulation 8.1 Appeals

8.1
The Bureau recognises the need for checks and balances on

the powers of the Disposal Licensee and the Regulations
empower the Bureau to hear appeals from End-users
regarding unreasonable decisions by the Disposal Licensee.
8.2
The Bureau expects that an End-user will have entered

into negotiations with the Disposal Licensee regarding any
dispute before making an appeal. During these negotiations,
the End-user should have explained why they feel unable to
accept the conditions or action. The Bureau would expect
these negotiations to continue to take place once the appeal
is lodged.
8.3
Figure 8.1 illustrate the process for appeals to be resolved by

the Bureau.
Figure 8.1 Appeals process
45
Regulation 8.2 Appeal form

8.4
A template for the Bureaus appeal application form is set

out in Annex B of this guidance document.
8.5
A completed appeal should be submitted to the Bureaus

Head of Legal Services in writing. The application should
be supported by soft copy of all the appeal documents in
Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format.
Regulation 8.6 Bureau consideration

8.6
When the Bureau receives an appeal it will provide copies of

the completed appeal form and supporting documents to all
affected parties. It will then give both the Disposal Licensee
and End-user the opportunity to make representations
regarding the appeal. At this stage it may be possible for the
appeal to be resolved informally by adoption of suggestions
made by Bureau.
8.7
If the dispute cannot be resolved informally, the Bureau

will decide whether to deal with the appeal based on the
written submissions of both parties, or to arrange a private
hearing. This decision will be dependent on the complexity
of the issues at stake and the views of the appellant and the
Disposal Licensee.
8.8
The appeal will normally be decided in light of the Bureaus

understanding of the practical and financial consequences
for both Disposal Licensee and the End-user. Ultimately,
the Bureau must be satisfied that the condition or action is
justified.
8.9
The Bureau will take into consideration
46
(a)
health and safety requirements;
(b)
any substances likely to damage the environment

or harm public health or cause special difficulty or
expense in Treatment and Disposal Systems;
(c)
whether the conditions imposed by the Licensee relate

to legal obligations imposed by the EAD, CWM or
SRA;
the long-term cost implications for the End-user and

Licensees; and
(e)
the timetable for the achievement of these changes.
After consideration of all of these factors, the Bureau will

determine whether the disputed condition or action is
justified and issue a binding determination in writing to all
affected parties.
Appeals and
arbitration
8.10
(d)
Regulation 8.8 Arbitration

8.11
8.12
Any Entity who believes the Bureau has made an

unreasonable decision regarding the enforcement of these
Regulations may refer the matter to arbitration subject to
the terms of Article (67) and Article (130) of Law No (2).
(a)
Article (67) states The court with the appropriate

jurisdiction shall hear disputes relating to Regulations
made under Article (62) of this Law.
(b)
Article (130) states Any dispute arising between

a person conducting a regulated activity and the
Regulation and Supervision Bureau as to any decision
made by the Regulation and Supervision Bureau
shall be determined by arbitration in accordance with
Schedule 2 to this Law.
Schedule 2 of Law No (2) defines the Water and Electricity

Regulatory Arbitration Code which sets out the procedure
for resolving disputes regarding regulated activities.
47
48
Part 9: Demand management
Regulation 9.1 Measuring production and

9.2 Measuring supply
9.1
The Bureau recognises that measuring the production

and supply of Recycled Water and Biosolids is critical to
establishing economic and fair policies for the allocation of
these valuable resources.
9.2
The Regulations require all Treatment Licensees to keep a

register of key data relating to the quantity and quality of
Recycled Water and Biosolids produced by each of their
Treatment Systems. A template for the register can be
found in Annex C.
9.3
The Regulations also require all Disposal Licensees to keep

a register of key data relating to the quantity and quality
of Recycled Water and Biosolids supplied under each of
their Supply Agreements. A template for the register can be
found in Annex D.
Regulation 9.3 Meeting demand

9.4
The Bureau accepts that the allocation of Recycled Water

and Biosolids is a complex process which must be driven by
Government policy and form part of the Emirates strategy
for managing its resources.
9.5
Where there is a clear direction or policy issued by a

higher authority regarding the allocation of Recycled
Water or Biosolids, the Regulations require a Disposal
Licensee to follow that instruction. However, where there
is no instruction the Disposal Licensee should allocate the
resource using Priority Rights.
9.6
The Priority Rights concept has been used to allocate water

resources in the western United States of America for many
years. It recognises that all Entities have the right to use
water for beneficial purposes and that water allocation
should not be governed by ownership of land with access to
the water resource. In a Priority Rights system, allocation is
decided by the timing of the application for the right to use
the water.
49
9.7
Adopting this approach means that the first Entity to be

given rights to use the Recycled Water or Biosolids for
beneficial purposes acquires the right to its future use in
preference to later applicants.
9.8
When considering an application for a Supply Agreement,

a Disposal Licensee must be satisfied that:
9.9
(a)
the Recycled Water or Biosolids will be used for

beneficial purposes; and
(b)
that the new Supply Agreement will not exceed its

capacity to meet its existing supply obligations.
Under the system, an allocation of the Recycled Water or

Biosolids can only be held by an End-user as long as the use
remains socially or environmentally beneficial and efficient.
If an Entity is not using all their allocation for beneficial
use or in an inefficient way, its allocation could be modified
or lost through a variation of its Supply Agreement by a
Disposal Licensee.
Regulation 9.4 Efficient use

9.10
50
The Regulations require Disposal Licensees to promote

efficient use of Recycled Water and Biosolids. This should
be addressed in the codes of practice for the Reuse of
Recycled Water and Biosolids which all Disposal Licensees
must develop to comply with their licence.
Part 10: Education

and guidance
10
Regulation 10.1 Education and guidance

10.1
International experience has shown that active engagement

with the public helps to address perception issues and
increase community awareness. By increasing awareness
and knowledge of Recycled Water and Biosolids the sector
can improve social acceptance of Reuse practices and help
the community act responsibly.
10.2
End-user education is an essential component of Disposal

activities and limits inadvertent or unauthorised uses of
Recycled Water or Biosolids. The Bureau believes such
programmes will help End-users understand the potential
public health and environmental impacts associated with
unauthorised use or exposure.
10.3
The Bureau will work with Disposal Licensees to help them

develop consistent and appropriate strategies to educate
End-users and the general public.
10.4
Guidance on good practice for engaging End-users and

the general public can be found in Environment Protection
and Heritage Council of Australia Guidelines for water
recycling: managing health and environmental risks
(phase 1) 20068.
Regulation 10.2 Awareness of Recycled Water

and Biosolids quality
10.5
The Bureau believes that the End-user should understand

the value or costs associated with using Recycled Water
and Biosolids. The Regulations require Disposal Licensees
to provide information to End-users which allows them to
make this assessment.
10.6
A Disposal Licensee should define the agronomic value of

the Recycled Water and Biosolids by specifying, amongst
other things, the:
(a)
typical range of total and available nitrogen,

phosphorus and potassium; and
51
(b)
(c)
10.7
10
52
the salinity of the Recycled Water by providing data

on:
(i)
Salinity (dS/m @ 25oC);
(ii)
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS);
(iii)
Sodium Adsorption Ration (SAR);
(iv)
Sodium (Sodium (Na+);
(v)
Chloride (Cl-); and
(vi)
Boron; and
the typical range of the dry matter and volatile matter

in Biosolids.
A Disposal Licensee should define the quality of Recycled

Water for industrial uses by specifying the typical
concentrations of chemicals likely to cause corrosion or
scaling, including but not limited to:
(a)
calcium salts (carbonate, sulphate and phosphate);
(b)
magnesium salts (carbonate and phosphate);
(c)
silica; and
(d)
Total Dissolved Solids.
Part 11: Recycled Water

and Biosolids Review Panel
11
Regulation 11.1 Establishment of the Panel

11.1
The Bureau believes that regulation is a dynamic process

and regular review of the legal framework is important to
encourage innovative, economic and safe management of
Disposal activities.
11.2
The Bureau recognises that stakeholders have an important

part to play in this review process and the Regulations
establish a Panel of expert stakeholders to advise the
Bureau on specific aspects of Recycled Water and Biosolids
Disposal.
Regulation 11.6 Panel members

11.3
The Panel will be made up of representatives from:

(a)
the Bureau;
(b)
all Sewerage Services Licensees with a permanent

licence;
(c)
Government agencies responsible for the protection

of the environment and public health;
(d)
Entities which represent End-users; and
(e)
expert advisers.
11.4
Sewerage Services Licensees with a permanent licence are

detailed on the Bureaus website.
11.5
The following government agencies will be invited to be

members of the first panel
(a)
The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi;
(b)
Health Authority Abu Dhabi;
(c)
Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority;
(d)
Center of Waste Management; and
(e)
The Centre of Environmental Health and Safety

Management.
53
11.6
11
The following Entities which represent End-users will be

invited to be members of the first Panel:
(a)
Department of Municipal Affairs; and
(b)
ZonesCorp.
11.7
The Bureau will establish working groups of Panel members

to address the Panels obligations under the Regulations
and each working group will be made up of five members
including a Bureau chairman.
11.8
When the Bureau establishes a working group it will consider

the qualifications, and experience of all Panel members
and the organisations they represent before selecting a
group which it believes will provide robust, objective and
fair advice.
11.9
The Regulations require that a person nominated to serve

on the Panel must:
(a)
be qualified and competent; and
(b)
have authority to undertake any actions on behalf of

the organisation they represent.
Regulation 11.9 Panel rules

11.10
54
The Panel must develop its own rules and procedures of

governance which must be approved by the Bureau.
ANNEXES
Annexes
Annex A: Risk assessment
58
Annex B: Proposed Bureau Appeal Form
64
Annex C: Treatment Licensee Demand

Management Report
68
Annex D: Disposal Licensee Demand

Management Report
70
57
Annex A
Risk assessment
58
Annex A: Risk assessment

A.1
The risk assessment process must use clear and detailed

definitions of likelihood and consequence.
A.2
The EAD has established guidance for risk assessment in

the EHSMS CoP 05 Risk Management. The following
tables summarise the EHSMS CoPs approach assessing
probability, consequence and risk. These tables provide
clear detailed definitions and could be used as a template
for a Safety Plan risk assessment.
Table A.1 Risk assessment

Consequence
Likelihood
Insignificant (1)
Minor (2)
Moderate (3)
Major (4)
Catastrophic(5)
(1)
Possible (2)
10
Likely
(3)
12
15
Often
(4)
12
16
20
Frequent (5)
10
15
20
25
Rare
Table A.2 Risk categories

Risk Score
Risk Category
Action
15 25
Extreme

Activity should not proceed in

current form
8 14
High

Activity should be modified

and subject to detail analysis
4 - 7
Moderate

Activity can operate subject to

management control or modification
1 - 3
Low

No action required unless

escalation of risk is possible
Table A.3 Likelihood assessment

Probability
Description
Rare
less than once every 5 years
Possible
once in 5 years
Likely
1 to 5 times per year
Often
5 to 12 times per year
Frequent
continuous or regular occurrence
59
60
Occasional damage
by erosion or some
disruption to habitats
Occasional short
disruption of aquatic
fauna and flora
Aquatic ecosystems
Insignificant
Land ecosystem
Area Impacted
Short term impacts

on water resources
No impact on water
resources
Limited (<1
year) damage to
ecosystem
Temporary (<1
month) damage or
disruption to fauna
and flora
Significant localised
impacts without
long term affects on
ecosystems.
Temporary but
widespread damage
to land that can be
remediated
Limited damage
to small area of no
significant value.

Temporary (<1
month) damage or
disruption to aquatic
fauna and flora but
no negative impacts
on ecosystem
function.
Changes to fauna
and flora populations
including death of
some rare species
but not eradication.
Moderate
Impact on fauna
and flora but no
negative impacts on
ecosystem function.
Minor
Major

Limited impacts on
water resources
Widespread impact
on fauna and flora of
moderate duration
Permanent and
widespread damage
to land
Major disruption
to fauna and flora
including death of
rare species
Continuous and
serious damage by
erosion.

Table A.4 Consequence assessment
Long term impacts

on water resources
Damage to extensive
proportions of
aquatic ecosystem.
Widespread
destruction to a
significant area of
land
Long term or
permanent change in
fauna and flora with
negative impact on
ecosystem function.
Catastrophic
Cultural heritage
Minot repairable
damage to common
place structures
Moderate damage
to structures and
items of cultural
significance
Significant
infringement of
cultural values
Minor infringement
of cultural values
Generation of
significant quantities
of hazardous waste
Significant nuisance
from noise, odour,
greenhouse gases,
vibration or visual
impact
Moderate
Minor repairable
damage to structures
or items of cultural
significance
Significant use of
natural resources
Minor use of natural

resources
Generation of
of non hazardous
waste
Minor environmental
impact due to
contained release
of pollutants with no
lasting detrimental
effects
Temporary nuisance
from noise, odour,
greenhouse gases,
vibration or visual
impact
Atmosphere, waste
and other
Minor
Insignificant
Area Impacted
Significant
infringement of
cultural values
Major damage
to structures and
items of cultural
significance
Major environmental
impact due to
uncontained release
of pollutants
Major
irreparable damage
to highly valued
structures, items or
locations of cultural
significance
Generation of
of intractable waste
Extensive persistent
discharge of
hazardous pollutant
Catastrophic
environmental impact
due to uncontained
release of pollutants
Catastrophic
61
Annex A
62
Insignificant impact
on surrounding
Communities
Incident unlikely to
cause production
loss
Production loss
Insignificant
Health effects
Area Impacted
Production loss up
to one week
Minor exposure
during non routine
activities, maximum
occurrence limited to
twice per year
Minor
Production loss
greater than one
week but less than
one month
Significant emissions
or discharges
that impact on
surrounding
community
Moderate
Production loss
of more than one
month
Major ongoing
health effects likely
for surrounding
communities and
workers
Major
Table A.4 Consequence assessment (cont.)
Loss of licence to
operate or ability to
produce indefinitely
Extreme health risks

and potential for
death
Catastrophic
63
Annex B
Bureau Appeal Form
64
Annex B: Proposed
Bureau Appeal Form
Recycle Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

Appeal against Disposal Licensee decision
relating to a Supply Agreement
A) Company responsible for receiving Recycled Water

or Biosolids.
Company name
Registered address
Registered company Number
Principal contact and contact details
B) Disposal Licensee
Company name
Principal contact and contact details
C) Details of Supply Agreement

Supply Agreement reference number
Safety Plan reference number
Physical location of Point-of-transfer
D) Decision to be appealed
Provide a short summary of decision which is being appealed.
Provided a detailed justification for the appeal. Include details of the
technical, procedural or legal challenges which give rise to the appeal.
Append a copy of the following documents:
(a)
(b)
(c)
the Supply Agreement application ;

the Supply Agreement;
the variation notice where issued.
65
Declaration
I confirm that the information contained in this appeal is, to the best of
my knowledge, accurate, comprehensive and not misleading.
I am aware that making an appeal that is known to be false in material

or calculated to mislead is contrary to the Law and shall be enforced
in accordance with Article (66) of Law No (2) of 1998 concerning the
regulation of the water and electricity sectors in the Emirate of Abu
Dhabi, as amended.
Signed by
Print name
Designation
Date
for and on behalf of the Company
Address :
"Enter details of physical address"
Postal address:
"Enter details of postal address"
Telephone: "enter number"
Facsimile: "enter number"
"Stamp with Company seal"
66
67
Annex C
Treatment Licensee
Demand Management Report
68
Total Annual Flow Ml

Mean Daily Flow Ml/d

% meeting P1
% meeting P2
% meeting P3
Total Annual TDM

Av Daily TDM/d
Total Annual TDM

Av Daily TDM/d
Total Annual TDM

Av Daily TDM/d
% meeting B1
% meeting B2

Recycled water
to Reuse off site
Recycled water
to ocean or desert
Recycled
water quality
Biosolids to
direct Reuse
Biosolids to
further processing
Biosolids
to Landfill
Biosolids quality
TDM = Tonnes Dry Matter

Recycled water
to Reuse off site
Notes:

Incoming flow
Wastewater Treatment Works
Works A
Works B
Period from. to ..
[Treatment Licensee]
..
Total
Annex C:
Treatment Licensee
69
Annex D
Disposal Licensee
70
% meeting P1
% meeting P2
% meeting P3
Total Annual TDM

Av Daily TDM/d
% meeting B1
% meeting B2
Recycled water
quality supplied
Biosolids
quantity supplied
Biosolids
quality supplied
TDM = Tonnes Dry Matter

Recycled water
quantity supplied
Notes:
GPS location
End-Use
Treatment works
source
Disposal sites
Point-of-transfer A
Point-of-transfer B
Period from. to ..
[Disposal Licensee]
Point-of-transfer ..
Total
Annex D:
Disposal Licensee
71
Regulation and Supervision Bureau

for
the water, wastewater and electricity sector
P.O. Box: 32800 Abu Dhabi, U.A.E
e-mail: bureau@rsb.gov.ae
www.rsb.gov.ae
Publication No. ER/P04/010

Guide to Recycled Water Regulations

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June 2010

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

Recycled Water and Biosolids

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

Part 3: Disposal of Recycled Water

Part 4: Supply of Recycled Water and Biosolids

Part 5: Safety Plans

Part 6: Safety Plan monitoring programme

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

Table of contents (cont.)

Part 8: Appeals and arbitration

Part 9: Demand management

Part 10: Education and guidance

Part 11: Recycled Water and

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

The Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

The Regulations are issued by the Bureau under its powers

The Regulation and Supervision Bureau may, in

Figure 1.1 illustrates the laws, documents and terms used by

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

This guidance document is aimed at helping Sewerage

The guide aims to provide information on:

Supply Agreements for the Disposal of

Safety Plans and monitoring programmes; and

(b) the roles and responsibilities of End-users, Licensees,

The guide has been developed in consultation with

The Bureau will ensure that this document is regularly

Any Disposal activity which begins after the 1 June 2010

Any Disposal activity which is ongoing on 1 June 2010 must

A Disposal Licensee may agree an alternative programme

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

Words which are defined in the Regulations begin with

A word or expression which is defined in the Law and used,

All time periods in the Regulations are stated in calendar

Help and advice

The Bureau welcomes views and comments about the

Please contact the Bureau if you:

have any questions about the Regulations;

have suggestions on how we could improve the

require copies of the Laws and Regulations which

To contact the Bureau please:

telephone: +971 (0)2 4439333; or

write to: Director of Water Services, Regulation and

Copies of the Laws and Regulations which govern the

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

The Wastewater Sewerage, Treatment and Disposal

In order to support the Emirates sustainable development

maximise the social and economic benefits associated

minimise the risk to public health and the environment;

develop public confidence in Recycled Water and

Defining Recycled Water and Biosolids

The Regulations include the following important definitions

Wastewater the water-borne wastes generated

Grey Water Wastewater sourced solely from baths,

Recycled Water treated liquid effluent produced

Biosolids sewage sludge produced by a Wastewater

Disposal the safe and sustainable disposal,

Guide to Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010

The definitions are intended to clarify three key issues:

Grey Water is an integral component of Wastewater